Poetry in Nature with Haiku

Nature can inspire the poets in us.  We want to express how beautiful nature is, and how joyful and uplifted we feel when we are immersed in it.

Haiku, a type of Japanese poetry, has been around for centuries in Japan, and made popular by the poet Matsuo Bashō.  It includes these elements:  has 17 morae (which is loosely translated as syllables) in three lines of 5, 7, 5; incorporates nature and the seasons; and juxtaposes two ideas.  Haiku conveys in brevity, and using descriptive words, the fleeting moment and essence of nature.

Haiku has become popularized around the world.  While traditional haiku is rooted in nature, these days, people have adapted it to write just about anything.  Anyone can learn how to write haiku.  Have a go, and see what you can come up with!

Spring is upon us
Flowers blooming, birds chirping
My soul awakens